Patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs)—such as IBS, functional dyspepsia, and chronic nausea—often struggle with symptoms that don’t show up on standard medical tests. As a result, many feel dismissed, doubted, or alone in their experience. One of the most powerful tools doctors can use in these situations is simply listening with empathy.

When healthcare providers take the time to listen closely, show genuine interest, and avoid interrupting, they help patients feel understood and respected. Validating a patient’s symptoms—even when there’s no clear answer—can reduce emotional stress, which in turn may ease physical symptoms.

Research shows that empathy improves trust, treatment follow-through, and overall well-being in people with DGBIs. A kind, compassionate approach isn’t just about bedside manner—it’s a key part of effective, evidence-based care for gut-brain conditions.

📚 References 

• Drossman, D. A., & Ruddy, J. (2020). Improving patient–provider relationships to improve health care. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 18(7), 1417–1426. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2019.12.007
  
  

• Borrelli, O., Cordischi, L., & Staiano, A. (2020). Psychological assessment and care in children and adolescents with functional gastrointestinal disorders: The value of empathy. Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 32(6), e13813. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.13813
  
  

Healthcare providers can help patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs)—like IBS or functional dyspepsia—feel heard and supported. First, it’s important to say, “I believe you.” Even if tests look normal, the patient’s pain and discomfort are real and deserve care. This builds trust and reduces fear that their symptoms are being ignored or dismissed.

Next, doctors should let patients know that they are not alone. DGBIs are common, and science now understands them better than ever before. When providers normalize the experience, it helps patients feel less ashamed or anxious. Feeling understood can actually help reduce symptom severity by calming the nervous system.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Drossman, D. A., & Ruddy, J. (2021). Improving patient–provider relationships to enhance healthcare outcomes in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 19(5), 891–898. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2020.08.049

• Muscatello, M. R. A., et al. (2022). The role of validation and empathy in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A review of the literature. Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 34(6), e14250. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.14250

Two powerful ways doctors can support people with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) like IBS or chronic nausea are to show empathy and to empower the patients.

Providers should show empathy by saying things like, “I’m so sorry you’re going through this.” These words help patients feel seen and understood, especially when symptoms don’t show up clearly on medical tests.

Second, it’s important to empower the patient—letting them know that there are ways to feel better and that they play a key role in their own care. When patients feel hopeful and included in the plan, they’re more likely to stick with treatments and feel in control. Research shows that empathy and partnership can reduce distress and improve outcomes in DGBIs.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Drossman, D. A., & Ruddy, J. (2021). Improving patient–provider relationships to enhance healthcare outcomes in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 19(5), 891–898. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2020.08.049

• Howren, M. B., Keefer, L., & Suls, J. (2009). Psychosocial treatments of irritable bowel syndrome: A meta-analysis. Health Psychology, 28(6), 701–716. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0015921

The picture explains how to help people who have Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs). It is important to show support by being kind and understanding. This helps the person feel cared for and not alone.

We should listen carefully when someone talks about their symptoms. This means letting them speak without interrupting and really paying attention to what they say. When we do this, it helps them feel heard and respected. These two actions—supporting and listening—can make a big difference in how someone feels about their health.

References:

• Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI Disorders: Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

• Palsson, O. S., Whitehead, W. E., van Tilburg, M. A. L., et al. (2016). Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaires and Tables for Investigators and Clinicians. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1481–1491. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.010

When treating disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) it's important for both patients and doctors to set realistic expectations. These conditions are often chronic, meaning they can last a long time, and while symptoms can improve, they don’t always go away completely. Expecting a full “cure” may lead to disappointment or make patients feel like they’ve failed, even when real progress is being made.

Instead, focusing on managing symptoms—such as reducing pain, improving bathroom habits, or lowering anxiety—can lead to better quality of life. Research shows that helping patients understand the nature of their condition and work toward achievable goals builds trust and improves outcomes. It shifts care from fixing everything to living better with what’s manageable.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Koloski, N. A., Jones, M., & Talley, N. J. (2012). Evidence that independent gut-to-brain and brain-to-gut pathways operate in the irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia: A 1-year population-based prospective study. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 35(9), 1094–1101. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2012.05059.x

• Van Tilburg, M. A., Chitkara, D. K., & Palsson, O. S. (2015). Encouraging self-management for pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, 60(4), 455–459. https://doi.org/10.1097/MPG.0000000000000621

How physicians care for patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) can have a big impact on recovery. Many patients feel ignored or misunderstood, especially when their tests look normal. Validating what they are going through—saying things like, “Your symptoms are real, even without a clear cause”—helps build trust. It's also important to explain how the gut and brain work together. These conditions aren’t “all in your head,” but rather involve real communication between the nervous system and the digestive system.

Taking time to educate patients in simple, clear ways helps lower fear and improve outcomes. Using pictures, easy-to-understand language, or comparisons like “your gut is reacting like a fire alarm that’s too sensitive” makes complex ideas easier to grasp. Studies show that when patients understand their condition, they’re more engaged in care and more likely to feel better—even when the condition is ongoing.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Ringström, G., Störsrud, S., & Simrén, M. (2012). Nutritional and psychological education in patients with irritable bowel syndrome improves symptom severity and quality of life: A randomized controlled trial. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 107(5), 749–759. https://doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2011.483

• Houghton, L. A., & Heitkemper, M. (2022). Empathy and education: Essential tools in managing disorders of gut–brain interaction. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 19(9), 539–540. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41575-022-00634-0

Caring for people with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) like IBS or functional dyspepsia starts with listening and understanding. Patients often feel anxious or dismissed, especially when test results come back normal. That’s why it’s so important for doctors to create space for patient-centered communication—taking time to hear their concerns and giving clear, respectful responses. When providers practice active listening, show empathy, and act with compassion, it helps patients feel safe and supported.

These simple but powerful actions can reduce fear, improve treatment results, and build trust. Research shows that when providers acknowledge the patient’s emotional experience and respond kindly, patients with DGBIs report less distress and are more engaged in their care. A strong doctor-patient relationship can even improve how the gut responds to treatment.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Oliviera, J. G., Santos, T. S., & Drossman, D. A. (2021). The importance of empathy in the clinical care of patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction. Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 33(3), e14006. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.14006

• Drossman, D. A., & Ruddy, J. (2020). Improving patient-provider relationships to enhance outcomes in patients with functional GI disorders. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 18(4), 784–786. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2019.08.043

When doctors and nurses care for people with gut-brain disorders like IBS or chronic nausea, how they sit or stand can make a big difference. If a provider sits down, leans forward a little, and makes eye contact, it shows the patient that they are really listening and care. This can help the patient feel safe and respected. 

On the other hand, standing with arms crossed or looking at a computer screen can make the patient feel ignored or rushed.

People with gut-brain conditions often feel stressed or misunderstood, so feeling heard is extra important. A calm and open body posture helps build trust. It also helps patients feel more comfortable sharing their symptoms and worries, which leads to better care.

References
Kaptchuk, T. J., Kelley, J. M., Conboy, L. A., Davis, R. B., Kerr, C. E., Jacobson, E. E., ... & Lembo, A. J. (2008). Components of placebo effect: Randomised controlled trial in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. BMJ, 336(7651), 999–1003. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.39524.439618.25

Beckman, H. B., & Frankel, R. M. (1984). The effect of physician behavior on the collection of data. Annals of Internal Medicine, 101(5), 692–696. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-101-5-692

When doctors or nurses sit down and face their patients with a relaxed, open posture, it can make a big difference—especially for people with gut-brain disorders. This kind of body language helps patients feel more equal, not like the doctor is “above” them. It also shows that the provider is calm, caring, and ready to listen, which can make the patient feel emotionally safe. Feeling safe is very important for people with DGBIs, because stress and fear can make their symptoms worse.

Using friendly body posture also helps build something called a therapeutic alliance—this means the patient and provider work together as a team. When patients feel that their doctor truly sees and hears them, they are more likely to trust the advice, follow the treatment plan, and feel better overall. Small actions like sitting at eye level, leaning forward slightly, and keeping an open posture can send a powerful message: “I care about you, and we’re in this together.”

References
Beach, M. C., Roter, D., Korthuis, P. T., Epstein, R. M., Sharp, V., Ratanawongsa, N., ... & Saha, S. (2013). A multicenter study of physician mindfulness and health care quality. Annals of Family Medicine, 11(5), 421–428. https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.1507

Silverman, J., Kurtz, S., & Draper, J. (2013). Skills for communicating with patients (3rd ed.). CRC Press.

People with gut-brain disorders like IBS, functional dyspepsia, or chronic nausea often feel scared, frustrated, or ignored—especially when their tests come back normal. That’s why it’s important for doctors and nurses to create a space where patients feel safe, respected, and heard. One way to do this is by validating what the patient is going through. This means saying, “I believe you” and “What you’re feeling is real,” which helps reduce fear and builds trust.

Doctors can also involve patients in choosing their treatments by using shared decision making. This means the doctor explains the options, listens to the patient’s thoughts, and they make a plan together. Respecting the patient’s choices (called autonomy) and keeping communication open also help patients feel in control and less alone. When patients feel safe and supported, they are more likely to speak honestly, follow their care plan, and feel better overall.

References
Greene, J., & Hibbard, J. H. (2012). Why does patient activation matter? An examination of the relationships between patient activation and health-related outcomes. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 27(5), 520–526. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-011-1931-2

Epstein, R. M., & Street, R. L. (2011). The values and value of patient-centered care. Annals of Family Medicine, 9(2), 100–103. https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.1239

When caring for people with gut-brain disorders like IBS or functional dyspepsia, the words we use really matter. It’s important to let patients know that their symptoms are real and valid, even if tests look normal. Using gentle, respectful language helps remove shame and makes the patient feel less judged. Instead of saying “it’s just stress,” a provider might say, “many people with gut issues also feel anxiety—your body and brain are closely connected.”

It also helps to explain that these conditions are common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Asking kindly about how symptoms affect daily life and emotions can show patients that it’s okay to talk about both their physical and mental health. This kind of care helps build trust and makes the clinic feel like a safe, healing place.

References
Drossman, D. A., & Ruddy, J. (2020). Improving the patient-provider relationship to improve health care for patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 115(3), 348–357. https://doi.org/10.14309/ajg.0000000000000522

Riehl, M. E., & Keefer, L. (2015). Hypnotherapy for functional gastrointestinal disorders: A primer for the gastroenterologist. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 13(5), 623–630. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2014.08.036

When people have gut-brain disorders like IBS or chronic nausea, they often feel confused, worried, or like no one understands what they’re going through. The way a doctor talks can make a big difference. Simple, caring phrases like “I believe you,” “You’re not alone,” or “We’ll work through this together” can help patients feel supported. Saying “That sounds really tough” or “I can see why you’re feeling this way” shows the doctor truly understands.

These kinds of words help patients feel safe and cared for. They also make it easier for people to talk about their symptoms and fears. When doctors use kind, supportive language, patients are more likely to trust them, follow their treatment plan, and feel better emotionally and physically.

References
Trzeciak, S., Mazzarelli, A. J., & Booker, C. A. (2019). Compassionomics: The revolutionary scientific evidence that caring makes a difference. Studer Group.

Riess, H. (2017). The impact of clinical empathy on patients and clinicians: Understanding empathy’s side effects. American Journal of Medicine, 130(9), 1009–1010. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.04.035

Culturally sensitive care means showing respect for a patient’s culture, language, beliefs, and values. It also means understanding that people may have different ways of talking about their symptoms, coping with illness, or making health decisions. This is very important when caring for patients with gut-brain disorders like IBS, functional dyspepsia, or chronic nausea, because these conditions are often affected by emotions, stress, and personal experiences.

When doctors provide culturally sensitive care, patients feel more comfortable, respected, and understood. This helps build trust and makes it easier for patients to talk about their symptoms and follow treatment plans. Some tips include: asking about the patient’s beliefs, using a medical interpreter when needed, avoiding judgment, and learning about common cultural practices. Being open and curious about a patient’s background can help the doctor provide better care that fits each person’s needs.

References
Betancourt, J. R., Green, A. R., Carrillo, J. E., & Owusu Ananeh-Firempong II, O. (2003). Defining cultural competence: A practical framework for addressing racial/ethnic disparities in health and health care. Public Health Reports, 118(4), 293–302. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0033-3549(04)50253-4

Beach, M. C., Price, E. G., Gary, T. L., Robinson, K. A., Gozu, A., Palacio, A., ... & Cooper, L. A. (2005). Cultural competence: A systematic review of health care provider educational interventions. Medical Care, 43(4), 356–373. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.mlr.0000156861.58905.96

When doctors care for people with gut-brain disorders like IBS or chronic nausea, it helps to learn about and respect the patient’s culture. People from different backgrounds may describe symptoms in different ways or have unique beliefs about illness and healing. By acknowledging cultural beliefs and using plain, simple language, doctors can make sure their patients feel safe and understood.

It’s also helpful to show respect, involve family members when needed, and ask about food or diet customs that may affect treatment. Some patients may feel embarrassed or scared to talk about stomach problems because of stigma in their community. Others may face barriers like language or limited access to care. When doctors take the time to ask, listen, and adjust their care to fit the patient’s needs, it builds trust and leads to better health. Culturally sensitive care means treating the whole person with kindness and understanding.

References
Kirmayer, L. J., & Ryder, A. G. (2016). Culture and psychopathology. Current Opinion in Psychology, 8, 143–148. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2015.10.014

Truong, M., Paradies, Y., & Priest, N. (2014). Interventions to improve cultural competency in healthcare: A systematic review of reviews. BMC Health Services Research, 14, 99. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6963-14-99

Structured communication helps reduce misunderstandings and improves teamwork among healthcare providers. When physicians use clear, consistent ways to share information—like checklists or team huddles—they feel more in control and less overwhelmed. This structure also helps ensure that patient care is coordinated, which can reduce the emotional burden on individual providers.

Peer support systems give doctors a safe space to talk about their challenges and share advice. Knowing they’re not alone can ease feelings of isolation and burnout. Celebrating small wins, like a patient following a new diet or reporting less pain, helps doctors stay motivated and feel that their work is making a difference. Finally, using the biopsychosocial framework—which looks at the whole person, not just their symptoms—can make care more meaningful. It reminds physicians that healing involves more than just medicine, and that emotional and social support matter too 

References:

• Drossman, D. A., & Ruddy, J. (2020). Improving the patient-provider relationship to reduce clinician burnout: A focus on functional gastrointestinal disorders. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 18(7), 1417–1426. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2019.10.031

• West, C. P., Dyrbye, L. N., & Shanafelt, T. D. (2018). Physician burnout: Contributors, consequences and solutions. Journal of Internal Medicine, 283(6), 516–529. https://doi.org/10.1111/joim.12752

People with gut-brain disorders like IBS or chronic nausea often feel misunderstood or alone. When doctors take the time to really listen, it helps patients feel cared for. Listening means not interrupting and being curious about how the patient feels and what they’ve gone through. When doctors make eye contact, smile, and use calm, open body language, it shows warmth and builds trust.

Being a good listener also means not jumping to conclusions. Instead of assuming what’s wrong, doctors can ask open questions and personalize each visit to the patient’s needs. Saying things like “That sounds really hard” or “I understand why you’re upset” are simple ways to show verbal empathy. These small actions help patients feel safe, respected, and supported, which can improve both their emotional well-being and their physical symptoms.

References
Riess, H., & Kraft-Todd, G. (2014). Empathy: A tool to enhance patient care. AMA Journal of Ethics, 16(8), 607–612. https://doi.org/10.1001/virtualmentor.2014.16.08.medu1-1408

Derksen, F., Bensing, J., & Lagro-Janssen, A. (2013). Effectiveness of empathy in general practice: A systematic review. British Journal of General Practice, 63(606), e76–e84. https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp13X660814

Emotional intelligence means being able to understand your own feelings and the feelings of others. For doctors, this means knowing when a patient is scared, frustrated, or feeling unheard—and responding in a kind and helpful way. Emotional intelligence helps doctors stay calm, listen better, and make patients feel safe and respected.

This is especially important for patients with gut-brain disorders like IBS, functional dyspepsia, or chronic nausea. These patients often have symptoms that don’t show up on tests. They may feel anxious or like no one believes them. When a doctor uses emotional intelligence, they can show empathy, build trust, and help the patient feel more comfortable. This leads to better care, better communication, and better outcomes.

References
Cherry, M. G., Fletcher, I., O’Sullivan, H., & Dornan, T. (2014). Emotional intelligence in medical education: A critical review. Medical Education, 48(5), 468–478. https://doi.org/10.1111/medu.12406

Arora, S., Ashrafian, H., Davis, R., Athanasiou, T., Darzi, A., & Sevdalis, N. (2010). Emotional intelligence in medicine: A systematic review through the context of the ACGME competencies. Medical Education, 44(8), 749–764. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2923.2010.03709.x

Resilience means being able to bounce back from stress, stay strong during hard times, and keep going even when things are tough. For doctors who care for people with gut-brain disorders like IBS or chronic nausea, building resilience is very important. These patients often have long-term symptoms, feel misunderstood, and may be frustrated when tests don’t show anything wrong. This can make visits emotional and challenging for both the patient and the doctor.

When doctors are resilient, they can stay calm, patient, and caring—even during tough visits. This helps them avoid burnout and continue giving good care. Some ways to build resilience include: taking breaks, talking to supportive colleagues, getting enough sleep, staying active, and reminding themselves of the meaning and purpose in their work. Taking care of themselves helps doctors better care for their patients.

References
West, C. P., Dyrbye, L. N., Erwin, P. J., & Shanafelt, T. D. (2016). Interventions to prevent and reduce physician burnout: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet, 388(10057), 2272–2281. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(16)31279-X

Epstein, R. M., & Krasner, M. S. (2013). Physician resilience: What it means, why it matters, and how to promote it. Academic Medicine, 88(3), 301–303. https://doi.org/10.1097/ACM.0b013e318280cff0

When doctors write messages to patients—like in emails or through patient portals—it’s important to sound kind, clear, and respectful. Certain things can make patients feel upset or ignored. For example, doctors should avoid using words that sound cold or dismissive, like “It’s just stress” or “There’s nothing wrong.” These phrases can make the patient feel like their symptoms don’t matter.

Doctors should also avoid writing in a tone that feels blaming or judgmental, such as “You didn’t follow the plan” or “This is your fault.” It’s better to use teamwork language, like “Let’s figure this out together.” Doctors should also try not to write long, hard-to-read blocks of text. Instead, messages should be short, simple, and easy to understand. Lastly, if there will be a delay in responding, it helps to send a quick message saying, “I’ve received your note and will get back to you soon.” This helps patients feel seen and supported while they wait.

References

Lown, B. A., & Rodriguez, D. (2012). Lost in translation? How electronic health records structure communication, relationships, and meaning. Academic Medicine, 87(4), 392–394. https://doi.org/10.1097/ACM.0b013e318248e5ae

North, F., Ojo, M., Elrashidi, M. Y., Tulledge-Scheitel, S. M., & Chaudhry, R. (2020). Patient portal messaging for care coordination: A qualitative study of perspectives of primary care physicians. Journal of Ambulatory Care Management, 43(2), 132–138. https://doi.org/10.1097/JAC.0000000000000316

Doctors can make their electronic messages better by showing care and understanding. One way is to use message templates that include kind words, like “I understand this is frustrating” or “Thank you for sharing how you feel.” This helps patients feel supported, even in short replies. If possible, doctors can also send audio or video messages to add a more personal touch, so patients can hear their doctor’s voice and tone.

It also helps to share links to helpful resources like websites, support groups, or handouts that explain the condition. Doctors can ask patients to fill out Patient-Reported Outcome (PRO) surveys, so they know how the patient is feeling between visits. Lastly, doctors and patients can make a communication agreement, like how quickly messages will be answered or what topics are best saved for an appointment. These steps help patients feel heard, respected, and cared for—while also making things easier for the care team.

References

Wachter, R. M. (2023). Rebuilding trust in health care—A path forward. New England Journal of Medicine, 388(10), 873–880. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMp2211800

Kemp, M. T., Williams, A. M., Alam, H. B., & Meara, J. G. (2020). The digital divide: Do patients trust their doctors’ electronic communication? Journal of Surgical Research, 254, 75–81. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jss.2020.04.042

When doctors care for people with chronic illnesses like IBS or chronic nausea, their facial expressions and body language can make a big difference. A soft, calm face, a gentle smile, and open hands can help patients feel safe and less nervous. When a doctor leans in a little while listening, it shows they care and are paying close attention.

Sometimes, doctors can also mirror the patient’s emotions—like showing concern when the patient is upset or smiling gently when they share good news. Nodding, making eye contact, or saying “I understand” while the patient is talking are affirming gestures that help the patient feel heard and supported. These small actions help build trust, reduce fear, and make the doctor-patient relationship stronger, which can improve both emotional and physical health.

References

Riess, H., Kelley, J. M., Bailey, R. W., Dunn, E. J., & Phillips, M. (2012). Empathy training for resident physicians: A randomized controlled trial of a neuroscience-informed curriculum. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 27(10), 1280–1286. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-012-2063-z

Finset, A., & Ørnes, K. (2017). Nonverbal communication in clinical contexts. In V. Manusov (Ed.), The SAGE Handbook of Nonverbal Communication (pp. 453–472). SAGE Publications. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781412976152.n26